Technical Archive

Rolex
Day-Date 36 118389-0013— lug 20mm

Rolex Day-Date 36 118389-0013: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Day-Date 36 White Gold Diamonds / President / Black Diamond

Artisanal Note

"This model requires a precise 20mm lug width to preserve the original sartorial balance."

Technical Specifications

Rolex 118389-0013
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

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Reference

118389-0013

Movement

Rolex caliber 3155 Hours, Minutes, Seconds | Date, Day | Chronometer

The Heritage

The Rolex Day-Date 36 White Gold Diamonds reference 118389-0013 features a 36mm white gold case with a fixed bezel and anti-reflective sapphire crystal. Powered by the Rolex caliber 3155 automatic movement with Chronergy escapement and 70-hour power reserve, this watch exemplifies executive watchmaking. The 20mm lug width is exclusive to the Day-Date 36 family and must be measured precisely between the inner spring bar attachments for proper strap compatibility.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Rolex Day-Date 36 118389-0013?

The lug width of the Rolex Day-Date 36 118389-0013 is 20 millimetres. This measurement must be taken from the inner edge of one lug to the inner edge of the other, measured in a straight line and excluding the spring bar tube. Accurate measurement is essential before purchasing an aftermarket strap, as the Day-Date 36 does not tolerate construction compromises.

Which strap is most suitable for a Rolex Day-Date 36 in white gold?

For the Day-Date 36 in 18-carat white gold, we recommend vegetable-tanned alligator leather in dark brown, aniline calf, or shell cordovan. Alligator offers visible grain texture that harmonises elegantly with the nobility of white gold, whilst shell cordovan ensures exceptional durability and rich patina development over time. Aniline calf represents the choice for those seeking tactile softness and natural ageing characteristics.

How do you change the strap on a Rolex Day-Date 36?

Strap replacement requires access to the spring bars—the two horizontal suspension pins at the case extremities. Using a spring bar tool or dedicated precision tool, press the outer pin to release the internal spring, then carefully withdraw the old strap. Insert the new strap, aligning it perfectly with the pin seats, ensuring both bars click into position securely. If you lack appropriate tools, strap changes are recommended at an authorised Rolex dealer or specialist atelier.

Is an aftermarket strap compatible with the Rolex Day-Date 36 118389-0013?

Yes, quality aftermarket straps are fully compatible with the Day-Date 36 118389-0013, provided they respect the 20-millimetre lug width specification. Specialised strap manufacturers offer certified compatibility with this model. Selecting experienced providers guarantees construction quality, appropriate finishing, and durability comparable to original Rolex straps.

How long does a leather strap last on a Rolex Day-Date 36?

Leather strap longevity depends on material and usage patterns. With alligator vegetable-tanned or shell cordovan, with ordinary maintenance (avoiding excessive moisture and regular cleaning), durability ranges from 4 to 8 years. With aniline calf, durability typically spans 3 to 5 years. A production defect warranty (18 months at Casati Milano) covers any construction non-conformity. Natural patina development over time is a desired characteristic, not a defect.

The next step

The right strap isn’t chosen. It is built, together.

From the atelier appointment to delivery, every step is made for those who know that things done well take time. Rare leathers, one piece at a time, eighteen months of warranty.

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